Captain Sir Tom Moore's family have backed a campaign for a national memorial to COVID-19 victims.
Captain Sir Tom Moore
The late army veteran - who raised more than £32 million for the NHS during the pandemic - died from coronavirus aged 100 in February, and his loved ones have supported the idea of a tribute at St. Paul's Cathedral to remember everyone who has lost their lives.
His daughter Hannah Ingram-Moore - speaking on behalf of her husband Colin and their children Benjie and Georgia - said: "In what has been a challenging time for the whole nation, my family has been blessed with support far and wide, which has given us great comfort.
"I welcome this campaign as I have no doubt it will result in uniting many who have suffered similar loss and offer not only comfort but also secure a fitting way to ensure our loved ones are remembered for many years to come.
"My father would have been so proud to know a fitting tribute was being made to bring the nation together at this unprecedented time of loss."
As well as her comments supporting the potential monument, Hannah has also made a donation to the Crowdfunder, alongside the likes of Prince Charles and Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Alongside her gift, she wrote: "In memory of my father Captain Sir Tom. This is a most poignant and respectful tribute to all those we have lost during the pandemic.
"I am very much looking forward to visiting this beautiful place, allowing us to remember those we have loved and lost. Hannah x."
Following Captain Tom's passing, Hannah shared a heartfelt statement in memory of her father, where she also thanked all those who had offered their “incredible support” during their family’s “time of sadness”.
She said: “Captain Sir Tom was simply father, Tom and Grandad to us. He was our world. We lived at home as an inter-generational family for over 13 years and although, like many, we weren’t perfect we were perfectly happy. He was strong, kind, full of humour and was the best mentor and confidante you could ever wish for. He was a vibrant, caring, and modest person who loved nothing more than to cook, mow the lawn, mend things and give sound advice.
“There is little pain that compares to losing someone you love and each one of us is feeling my father’s absence. Nothing can prepare you for that sudden wrench when their time comes to leave.”